One Nation volunteer hospitalized after alleged assault in Torquay
A 60-year-old One Nation volunteer was treated for serious injuries after police say he was attacked with a baseball bat by a teenager and a man in Torquay, Victoria.
Victoria Police said a 60-year-old One Nation volunteer was hospitalized with serious, non-life-threatening injuries after an incident on a front lawn in Torquay on Sunday evening. The police report states the volunteer confronted a 14-year-old who was allegedly damaging a corflute, after which the teenager and a 37-year-old man allegedly struck him with a baseball bat. Both suspects were arrested; the adult faces charges of intentionally causing injury, while the teenager received a caution.
One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, speaking outside Geelong Hospital, described the victim’s condition as involving loss of consciousness and extensive facial injuries. She added that the attack could have been life-threatening. Deputy leader Colleen Harkin called the incident a “savage attack on a person.”
Victorian Premier Ben Carroll called the assault “shocking” and said he had discussed the matter with the electoral commissioner. He emphasized that volunteers of any political affiliation should not be targeted and suggested additional security measures for upcoming elections. Opposition leader Jess Wilson described the incident as “absolutely appalling” and expressed sympathy for the victim’s family.
One Nation Victoria leader Warren Pickering issued a statement condemning the assault as “un-Australian” and unacceptable. Local resident Emma McGinness, who did not witness the attack, said the event had dampened the sense of safety in the normally quiet neighbourhood.